Microbiology Technologist

Atrium Health; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

None

Job summary

Atrium Health in Charlotte, NC seeks a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) to perform medium to high complexity Microbiology testing in bacteriology, mycobacteriology, mycology, virology and molecular infectious disease areas. The role requires maintaining specimen integrity and accurate EMR documentation.

MLS (ASCP) is acceptable with on-the-job training; candidates must obtain MLS(ASCP) or M(ASCP) within one year of onboarding. On-site work with PPE compliance and team training included.

Qualifications

• MLS (ASCP) certification is required or must be obtained within one year of onboarding.
• Candidate may have M(ASCP) preferred; relevant biology/chemistry degree accepted.
• Biology or chemistry degree with MLS/Microbiology track is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Performs medium to high complexity Microbiology testing procedures per SOPs.
• Analyzes and records patient test results in the EMR with care and accuracy.
• Maintains documentation and competency for all testing steps per policies.
• Participates in training and education of staff and students.
• Ensures compliance with PPE and regulatory guidelines.

Skills

Microbiology testing

Quality control

Specimen handling

Documentation

EMR data entry

Education

MLS (ASCP) certification

B.S. in Biology or Chemistry

Tools

LIS/EMR systems

Job description

• Performs medium to high complexity Microbiology testing procedures with a high level of quality in accordance with established protocols in bacteriology, mycobacteriology, mycology, virology and molecular-based infectious disease Microbiology.
• Assures integrity of specimens during all phases of testing.
• Performs various slide preparations and staining techniques.
• Maintains complete documentation/competency for all steps of processes as outlined in standard operating procedures and policies.
• Analyzes, interprets, and records patient test results into the electronic medical record with a high degree accuracy.
• Interprets complex susceptibility patterns to determine antibiotic resistance patterns and mechanisms as well as inconsistencies in drug-bug combinations.
• Performs Quality Control processes to establish acceptability of use for of microbiological materials following regulatory guidelines.
• Responsible for proper compliance and maintenance of respiratory PPE.
• Participates in the training of other technologists, students, resident physicians, pharmacy technicians and Infectious Disease nurses.
• Takes part in annual education pertaining to select microbiological agents and/or emerging pathogens.
• Troubleshoots assay, reagent, and instrument issues.
• Participates in verification and validation studies for process improvements, new equipment, and new technology transfer at the discretion of the operations and/or Technical Director.
• Reports any problems that might adversely affect patient care to leadership in a timely manner.
• Organizes daily functions to meet productivity guidelines.
• Takes on independent projects and tasks beyond routine bench work.
• Contributes to ongoing process improvement efforts.

Essential Functions

• Performs medium to high complexity Microbiology testing procedures with a high level of quality in accordance with established protocols in bacteriology, mycobacteriology, mycology, virology and molecular-based infectious disease Microbiology.
• Assures integrity of specimens during all phases of testing.
• Performs various slide preparations and staining techniques.
• Maintains complete documentation/competency for all steps of processes as outlined in standard operating procedures and policies.
• Analyzes, interprets, and records patient test results into the electronic medical record with a high degree accuracy.
• Interprets complex susceptibility patterns to determine antibiotic resistance patterns and mechanisms as well as inconsistencies in drug-bug combinations.
• Performs Quality Control processes to establish acceptability of use for of microbiological materials following regulatory guidelines.
• Responsible for proper compliance and maintenance of respiratory PPE.
• Participates in the training of other technologists, students, resident physicians, pharmacy technicians and Infectious Disease nurses.
• Takes part in annual education pertaining to select microbiological agents and/or emerging pathogens.
• Troubleshoots assay, reagent, and instrument issues.
• Participates in verification and validation studies for process improvements, new equipment, and new technology transfer at the discretion of the operations and/or Technical Director.
• Reports any problems that might adversely affect patient care to leadership in a timely manner.
• Organizes daily functions to meet productivity guidelines.
• Takes on independent projects and tasks beyond routine bench work.
• Contributes to ongoing process improvement efforts.

Marginal Functions

• Update job knowledge, skills, and certification. Attend continuing education sessions.

Physical Requirements

Works in a busy environment around physicians, technologists, and other hospital employees. Works in an area, which contains biohazardous (infectious) materials along with chemical, fire, and mechanical hazards. Each employee has the responsibility to work in a safe manner. May be required to stoop, reach, and lift light (20 pound) to moderately heavy (50 pound) loads.

Education, Training, Experience

MLS (ASCP) acceptable. M(ASCP) preferred. B.A./B.S. in Biology, Chemistry, or related scientific discipline acceptable. B.A./B.S. in Biology, Chemistry or related scientific discipline candidates are required to obtain an MLS(ASCP) or M(ASCP) certification within one year of on-boarding.